Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar, who turned heads with a match-winning performance against England at Lord’s, carries with him not just cricketing talent but a name steeped in heartfelt history.
As Sundar silenced critics with a remarkable four-wicket haul on Day 4 of the third Test, many fans were left asking a different question:
“Why is he named Washington?”
The answer lies in a touching tale of gratitude and tribute.
Who Was Washington?
The name “Washington” is a homage to PD Washington, a retired Army man and sports enthusiast who lived near the Sundar family in Chennai. During the early cricketing days of Sundar’s father—M. Sundar—PD Washington played the role of mentor and supporter.
Coming from a humble background, Sundar’s father struggled to afford cricket gear and proper training. PD Washington, noticing the young man’s promise, stepped in—buying him kits, whites, and even helping ensure he got an education.
“He came to see me play and would always encourage me. Because I came from a humble background, he ensured that I didn’t miss out on cricket,” Sundar’s father had once shared.
In memory of his unwavering support, when Sundar had a son, he named him Washington Sundar—an everlasting tribute to the man who helped shape his dreams.
Sundar Answers Critics at Lord’s with Stunning Spell
Heading into the second Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, many questioned Washington Sundar’s inclusion in the playing XI. But on Sunday at Lord’s, he answered those doubts in the best possible way—with the ball.
Sundar’s figures were pivotal in India bowling out England for just 192 in their second innings. His four wickets—all clean bowled—included major scalps:
Joe Root – broken partnership with Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes – clean bowled through the gate
Jamie Smith – top run-scorer in the series, dismissed by Sundar
Shoaib Bashir wrapped up the England innings
His spell changed the momentum of the match, allowing India to push for a likely victory.
In Summary: What is the Meaning of Washington Sundar’s Name?
Washington Sundar is not just a name—it’s a symbol of gratitude. His father named him after PD Washington, an ex-Army man who helped him during his formative years in cricket. It’s a story that reminds us that behind every rising star, there’s often an unsung hero.
And on the historic turf of Lord’s, Washington Sundar lived up to that legacy, doing justice to both the name and the jersey.
